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Emmy Award-winning actor Jeremy Piven stars as American entrepreneur and colorful retail magnate Harry Gordon Selfridge. Pioneering and reckless, with an almost manic energy, Harry Selfridge created a theater of retail for early 1900s Londoners where any topic or trend that was new, exciting, entertaining-or sometimes just eccentric-was showcased.

Anyone who enjoys Downton Abbey or Paradise will find this series to be a fun and intersting view on life as a Londoner in 1909. Piven plays an American who builds a department store in London while trying to navigate the social csutoms of the age. My favorite character is Ms. Anges Towler who plays a shop girl who has ambition to move up in the retail business. VCPL has Seasons 1 & 2!

“Eve Dallas has solved a lot of high-profile murders for the NYPSD and gotten a lot of media. She - with her billionaire husband - is getting accustomed to being an object of attention, of gossip, of speculation. But now Eve has become the object of one person's obsession. Someone who finds her extraordinary, and thinks about her every hour of every day. Who believes the two of them have a special relationship. Who would kill for her again and again. An aggressive defense attorney who's sparred with Eve in the courtroom is the first victim, but she isn't the last. The messages left for Eve at the crime scenes chill her and turn her stomach. It doesn't get much more personal than this - and Eve refuses to hand the investigation over to anyone else. With a murderer reading meaning into her every move, handling this case will be a delicate - and dangerous - psychological dance. And eve knows that underneath the worship and admiration, a terrible threat lies in wait. Because the beautiful lieutenant is not at all grateful for these bloody offerings from her "true and loyal friend." And in time, idols always fall....” Inside cover

Book 40 in J.D. Robb’s In Death series does not disappoint fans of Eve Dallas. For the first time, the killer knows Eve and has decided to kill off Eve’s enemies to prove her friendship. Eve begins to question everyone around her and her connection to them. This read was a fun one because every page caused you to question everyone Eve has ever worked with. This murder mystery kept me guessing so I highly recommend snagging this title. Stop by VCPL to pick up this book in large or regular print!

"Faith Holland left her hometown after being jilted at the altar. Now a little older and wiser, she's ready to return to the Blue Heron Winery, her family's vineyard, to confront the ghosts of her past. ... Like Levi Cooper, the local police chief--and best friend of her former fiancé. There's a lot about Levi that Faith never noticed, and it's not just those deep green eyes. The only catch is she's having a hard time forgetting that he helped ruin her wedding all those years ago. If she can find a minute amidst all her family drama to stop and smell the rosé, she just might find a reason to stay at Blue Heron, and finish that walk down the aisle"--P. [4] of cover.

I am a fan of Kristan Higgins books Somehow I have managed to read the Blue Heron series completely out of order but that did not interfere with enjoying the stories Higgins has crafted for her readers. This was a fun story to fall into because the main characters are not perfect and therefore very easy to relate to and fun to follow. Faith’s past with her mother was very interested and I have to admit I was taken by surprise by the truth. I recommend this novel to anyone who enjoyes reading modern romance. Stop by VCPL to pick up this book in large or regular print!

Renowned astrophysicist Stephen Hawking, who falls deeply in love with fellow Cambridge student Jane Wilde. Once a healthy, active young man, Hawking received an earth-shattering diagnosis at 21 years of age. With Jane fighting tirelessly by his side, Stephen embarks on his most ambitious scientific work, studying the very thing he now has precious little of; time. Together, they defy impossible odds, breaking new ground in medicine and science.

Based on the true story and account written by Jane Wilde Hawking, I found this movie to be a striking account about a couple who found a way to live with a terrible disease. While Stephen’s survival is truly inspiring; it is his wife Jane who is the true hero of their tale. She manages to help him finish his education and publish his work all while caring for him and raising their children. In the end, I was happy that Jane finally got the chance to reach her own goals and find happiness. VCPL owns several copies of this film. Stop by today and pick one up!

MPAA Rating: PG-13; for some thematic elements and suggestive material.

Author J. B. West spent 28 years as the chief usher at the White House. He directed the daily operation of the White House, including supervising hundreds of state functions and all the staff that both everyday life and huge special events required. We learn about each first family, although his actual interaction was usually with the First Ladies: The Roosevelts, Trumans, Eisenhowers, Kennedys, Johnsons, and Nixons are brought to life as likeable personalities. There is much interesting information about the condition of the White House over the years, as well as the redecoration that took place with each change in residents. He does not have anything negative to say about any first family, rather, interesting anecdotes, such as Lyndon Johnson's turning off of all the lights, and his constant upgrading of his personal shower until it was practically a water park, and still unsatisfactory! His own family often took a back seat to his duties at the White House, as he was very dedicated to his work. This interesting 11 disc audiobook is pleasingly read by Eric Martin. (973.009 W). The book is also available in a print edition (973.009 W).

Margaret Plantagenet is one of the last surviving members of England’s royal family. The royal blood running in her veins makes her a potential threat to whoever possesses the throne. As such, there is never a day that goes by when she isn’t in danger.

For years, Margaret’s primary concern is survival. She is willing to do almost anything to stay out of the spotlight: forsake her family name, stay away from court, and even live in poverty. No matter what she does, though, Margaret finds it impossible to erase herself from the king’s memory. Thus, she must eventually make the ultimate decision: abandon her beloved country or take a stand.

And then Margaret meets the one person who will change everything: Catherine of Aragon, the Spanish Infanta who will eventually become King Henry VIII’s first wife and Queen of England. Despite all that she has done to preserve her own life, Margaret suddenly finds that she will do anything it takes to help this girl reach the throne. And that's exactly what she does. By helping Catherine, Margaret secures for herself the life she has always dreamed of. She becomes a favored member of the king's court and reclaims the name of Plantagenet, as well as all the wealth and glory that accompanies it.

But then Margaret's dream turns into a nightmare. Once it becomes clear that Queen Catherine will not be able to produce a male heir, life in England takes a dramatic turn for the worse. The kind, handsome, and charming King Henry VIII gradually changs into a monstrous tyrant from whom nobody is safe, especially not those who have any claim to his crown.

Successful Seattle Realtor Mia Sullivan is nobody’s fool…apart from that one week five years ago when she gave away her heart to a sexy musician who gave her nothing in return but a few sinfully perfect days—and nights—in his bed. Though she swears she never wants to see him again, he’s the one man she’s never been able to forget.

One of the hottest rock stars in the world, Ford Victor can have any woman he wants…except Mia Sullivan. But now he knows millions of strangers singing along with his songs can’t fill the hole inside of him. Only Mia’s love has the power to do that—so he vows to do anything and everything it takes to win her heart again.

From the first moment they see each other again, intense sparks of attraction fly. Between irresistible kisses, a romantic Sullivan wedding in Napa Valley, and a deeply sensual connection that neither of them can deny, can Mia and Ford finally rediscover a love—and a friendship—strong enough to last forever?

Book 11 in Bella Andre’s wildly successful Sullivan series does not disappoint! This book is easily a stand alone but Andre’s has created a wonderful family for readers to get to know and root for as they search for love. Mia’s story does not have a lot of drama or shock but it is a simple story of a love lost and then potentially found again IF they can find a way to make it work. This story is for the music groupie in all of us!

You might not recognize any cast members other than Helen Mirren, but this film is well worth watching. Part drama and part romance, it tells the story of an Indian family who flee India after political unrest brings tragedy to the family. They had a successful restaurant in Mumbai, India, and wander the world trying to find somewhere to settle. After a vehicle breakdown near a quaint village in the French Alps, it seems that is meant to be the place to settle. Little do they know that it is home to Mirren's Michelin starred restaurant. They renovate a restaurant across the street and a "war" ensues. Mirren doesn't like the cooking smells, the loud music, nor the glitziness so close to her sophisticated restaurant. The son named Hassan is a gifted chef, and before long they are doing very well. Romance also enters the picture due to a beautiful young female chef at Mirren's restaurant. Through various plot twists, Hassan decides to learn French cooking and becomes her apprentice, before moving to more famous locations, but his heart yearns for his now French home. This enjoyable movie has a satifying ending that will leave you smiling.

On the island of Here, livin’s easy. Conduct is orderly. Lawns are neat. Citizens are clean shaven—and Dave is the most fastidious of them all. Dave is bald, but for a single hair. He loves drawing, his desk job, and the Bangles. But on one fateful day, his life is upended...by an unstoppable (yet pretty impressive) beard.

An off-beat fable worthy of Roald Dahl and Tim Burton, The Gigantic Beard That Was Evil is a darkly funny meditation on life, death, and what it means to be different—and a timeless ode to the art of beard maintenance.

In Deuce’s world, people earn the right to a name only if they survive their first fifteen years. By that point, each unnamed ‘brat’ has trained into one of three groups–Breeders, Builders, or Hunters, identifiable by the number of scars they bear on their arms. Deuce has wanted to be a Huntress for as long as she can remember.

As a Huntress, her purpose is clear—to brave the dangerous tunnels outside the enclave and bring back meat to feed the group while evading ferocious monsters known as Freaks. She’s worked toward this goal her whole life, and nothing’s going to stop her, not even a beautiful, brooding Hunter named Fade. When the mysterious boy becomes her partner, Deuce’s troubles are just beginning.

Down below, deviation from the rules is punished swiftly and harshly, and Fade doesn’t like following orders. At first she thinks he’s crazy, but as death stalks their sanctuary, and it becomes clear the elders don’t always know best, Deuce wonders if Fade might be telling the truth. Her partner confuses her; she’s never known a boy like him before, as prone to touching her gently as using his knives with feral grace.

As Deuce’s perception shifts, so does the balance in the constant battle for survival. The mindless Freaks, once considered a threat only due to their sheer numbers, show signs of cunning and strategy… but the elders refuse to heed any warnings. Despite imminent disaster, the enclave puts their faith in strictures and sacrifice instead. No matter how she tries, Deuce cannot stem the dark tide that carries her far from the only world she’s ever known.

Over 150 color photographs show spectacular images of gardens owned by royal families in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.While royal gardens are the focus, the book is overwhelmingly an architectural showcase.A few of the aerial views are especially striking.This large, heavy, 279 page volume with high quality paper will delight the page turning browser, and offers history of the gardens for those who want to know more about them, many dating to the Renaissance or earlier.A visual treat! c2014.(712.6 C)

Resistant is a novel about a deadly strain of bacteria developed by a terrorist group called the Neighbors, who want to overthrow entitlement programs such as Medicare, Social Security, etc., believing they steal dollars away from the needs of the rest of society.The Neighbors consist of rich people, political officials, etc. so secret that even their names are kept hidden from other members.Their scientists unleash the bacteria on unsuspecting injured patients in hospitals, hoping to blackmail the government into dropping the entitlement programs by not offering an antibiotic that will kill the bacteria, nicknamed the Doomsday Germ, until they get their way.However, the bacteria mutates, and no one can control it.ER doctor Lou Welcome and his best friend Cap are running on a mountainous track when Cap is grievously injured and later infected in the hospital with this horrible bacteria.The Neighbors have their own lab, but when their researchers can’t control the bacteria, they kidnap a Muslim microbiologist, Ahmed Kazimi, known as the best in the field. Until that time, he was protected by the FBI day and night at his lab and living quarters.Meanwhile, Cap is likely to lose one or more limbs, if not his life. and Lou pulls out all the stops to find a cure for him. He befriends another brilliant microbiologist/lab technician named Humphrey, who despite his extreme cerebral palsy, has solid theories about the Doomsday germ, and convinces Lou that the other researchers are on the wrong track.By setting up a clandestine lab, they may find a cure in time to save Cap.Eventually Humphrey is also kidnapped by the Neighbors and forced to work for their leader, Douglas Bacon, Neighbor N-38, alongside Ahmed Kazimi.Dr. Welcome and an FBI agent named Vale whose wife was murdered by the Neighbors, team up to make a final assault on Bacon’s ocean side compound.While there are not happy endings for everyone, the book’s resolution is satisfying to readers.Suspenseful and worth reading or listening to.This was Palmer’s last book before his death in October of 2013. The 11 disc audiobook is read by Robert Petkoff.Also available in regular print, and eaudiobook.

Aidan Bloom, a 35-year-old struggling actor, father, and husband, is still trying to find his identity, a purpose for his life. He winds up trying to home school his two children when his father can no longer afford to pay for private education and the only available public school is on its last legs. Through teaching them about life his way, Aidan gradually discovers some of the parts of himself he couldn't find.

This film came highly recommended by a friend. The trailer and the description did not really give me a very good sense of what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying the witty script and the quirky characters. VCPL owns several copies of this film. Stop by today and pick one up!

In her youth, Molly Anderson couldn't help crushing on gorgeous bad-boy Dylan Black—even though he only had eyes for her older sister. When things didn't work out between them, he said goodbye to Molly as well, vowing they'd have a great adventure when she grew up. Years later, dumped by her fiancé just before Christmas, she's finally ready to take Dylan up on his promise.

A guarded Dylan always had a weakness for Molly, and when she waltzes back into his life—grown-up and gorgeous—he's stunned. So why not whisk her away for some no-strings-attached fun?

Laughter-filled days and late-night kisses are changing Molly's life, for good. The only gift she truly wants now is Dylan's love, but when he discovers the secret she's been keeping, she may lose him again—this time forever.

This title is a re-issue of Susan Mallery’s 1998 book titled Wedding Ring Promise. I have only been reading Mallery’s books since I stumbled upon her Fool’s Gold series so this was a new story for me. I was entertained by Molly’s blunt request for Dylan to fulfill his promise long-forgotten. Both characters were very easy to like and hope for their stories to end happily. I have to say though that I am more than ready for more in the Fool’s Gold series and this re-issue was not quite up to filling that void.

VCPL has a copy of this title available in our New Fiction section! Happy Reading!

A medical school dropout named Wallace who has been repeatedly burned by bad relationships. So Wallace decides to put his love life on hold. It is then that he meets Chantry an animator who lives with her longtime boyfriend Ben. Wallace and Chantry form an instant connection, striking up a close friendship. Still, there is no denying the chemistry between them, leading the pair to wonder, what if the love of your life is actually your best friend?

As a huge Harry Potter fan, I was intrigued to watch a modern film starring Daniel Radcliffe. I found him to be very likable as Wallace. An awkward guy, who after a failed serious relationship, is having trouble finding his place in society as well as deal with being in the friend zone with his soul mate. I was highly entertained by this film.

Mia Hall thought the hardest decision she would ever face would be whether to pursue her musical dreams at Juilliard or follow a different path to be with the love of her life, Adam. But what should have been a carefree family drive changes everything in an instant. Caught between life and death for one revealing day, Mia has only one decision left, which will not only decide her future but her ultimate fate.

I really liked this adaptation from the Young Adult novel by the same title. This film gave readers the opportunity to see the struggle of Mia’s decision alongside her friends and family’s grief. Chloë Grace Moretz was close to how I pictured Mia when I first read the book so that helped me connect with the main character during the film.

The Vigo County Public Library has several copies available on DVD and BLU-Ray.

The Testing is the first book in a series of the same name written by Joelle Charbonneau. In this book the main character, Cia, and her friend Tomas, are chosen after graduation day to compete to attend the University. The students must pass a rigorous set of tests -- or else. Those who complete the tests successfully will be given the chance to attend the University and become one of the nation's future leaders.

I found this book to be quite a page-turner. It is full of action and suspense as Cia realizes her government may be up to no good, and that attending the University may not be as great an honor as it sounds. This book is for those who like post-apocalyptic fiction. It takes place in the future after a world war has decimated the population and ravaged the landscape. All-in-all I found it to be a good start to this trilogy.

How would you feel if the only birthday gift your parents bought you was a cardboard box? Would you be disappointed? Or would you see its potential for being the greatest present anyone could ever ask for?

When Cam’s down-and-out single father brings home a cardboard box for his birthday, he understands that it’s because they can’t afford anything more. Rather than being upset by this, though, Cam chooses to make the best of his situation. Only, the situation is far better than he could have ever imagined. When Cam and his father shape the cardboard into a man, they never expect it to actually come magically to life. Nor do they expect it when this simple piece of cardboard makes Marcus, the wealthy neighborhood bully, so jealous that he steals it and uses it to create an army of monsters that threaten to destroy them all!

In this beautifully illustrated graphic novel, Doug TenNapel takes readers back to their childhood days when a cardboard box was never just a cardboard box. The days when a cardboard box could be anything from a castle to a rocket ship to a time machine. Whether you’re just looking for a fun read or needing something to spark your imagination, Cardboard should definitely be at the top of your list!

Two struggling pals, played by Jake Johnson & Damon Wayans Jr, dress as police officers for a costume party and become neighborhood sensations. But when these newly-minted "heroes" get tangled in a real life web of mobsters and dirty detectives, they must put their fake badges on the line.

As a dedicated viewer of Fox’s The New Girl, I was very excited to see two of my favorite comedic actors get their own film. The premise is a little farfetched but once the characters get wrapped up in being cops it was hard to not laugh at the ridiculous situations they managed to get themselves into. A few scenes were a little gross but overall this film is worth checking out!

Released this past summer, Jersey Boys tells the story of the rise of The Four Seasons, an American rock and pop singing group, that was formed by three juvenile delinquents: Frankie Valli (Francesco Stephen Castelluccio), the lead singer, Nick Massi, bass guitar and vocals, and Tommy DeVito, lead guitar and baritone vocals, who grew up around Newark, New Jersey in the 1950s. Bob Gaudio, a fellow from the Bronx formerly of the Royal Teens, joined the group in 1960 as tenor vocal on keyboards and wrote most of their early hit songs.

I will admit that I knew almost nothing about The Four Season prior to watching this film. I recognized the songs of course but I was unaware of any details of their personal lives. I was mesmerized by their story and found that the 2 hours and 14 minute film passed by rather quickly. I was a little confused at the beginning as why all of the people in Frankie Valli’s life seemed dedicated to getting him into a singing career but as he grew up I liked his character more and more. I highly recommend seeing this film or if you are lucky seeing the Broadway stage production. VCPL has several copies of the film available for check out!

The ladies of Bletchley Circle are back in Season 2 with new mysteries to solve! The first episode, Blood on Their Handsopens with former Bletchley Park girl Alice Merren in prison awaiting trial for murder. Jean stands behind her innocence and tries to reunite the circle in an attempt to help one of their own. Lucy is now getting on well in a clerical job at Scotland Yard and keeping her head down, and Millie is working as a German translator. Susan is reluctant to get involved after her experience with the twisted serial killer Malcolm Crowley and the danger it posed to her family.

Next, in Uncustomed Goods, Millie branches out into what she believes to be a harmless sideline of dealing in uncustomed goods. This endeavor leads to her being kidnapped and held in a seedy hotel by some gangsters. On discovering this, Alice goes to Jean and Lucy to help. The girls start to investigate in order to save their friend and, as they do so, uncover a much darker, hidden world of crime.

If you enjoyed Season 1, I think Season 2 does a really nice job of keeping things interesting. I was disappointed that one of the characters is only in one of the episodes. But it is completely explained as to why the lady bows out of any further investigations. VCPL has a copy of Season 2! Stop by and check it out!

Four women who worked as codebreakers at Bletchley Park have taken up civilian lives. Susan has collated data about a series of murders. She tries to convince the police she knows where another body is, but they are unable to locate it and dismiss her. She turns to her three friends and they work out where the next victim will be taken, find the body, and then decide they are the only ones who can track down the killer.

I loved this series! Such a great mystery and really showed another side of life in Britain post WWII. Stop by VCPL to check the DVD set today!

The FBI had one demand when they secretly teamed up Special Agent Kate O’Hare with charming con man Nicolas Fox—bring down the world’s most-wanted and untouchable felons. This time it’s the brutal leader of a global drug-smuggling empire. The FBI doesn’t know what their target looks like, where he is, or how to find him, but Nick Fox has a few tricks up his sleeve to roust this particular Knipschildt chocolate–loving drug lord.From the streets of Nashville to the back alleys of Lisbon, from the rooftops of Istanbul to the middle of the Thames, Nick and Kate chase their mark. When they find themselves pitted against a psychopathic bodyguard and a Portuguese enforcer who gets advice from a pickled head, they decide it’s time to enlist some special talent—talent like a machete-wielding Somali pirate, a self-absorbed actor, an Oscar-winning special effects artist, and Kate’s father Jake, a retired Special Forces operative. Together they could help make this Fox and O’Hare’s biggest win yet . . . if they survive.

Janet Evanovich & Lee Goldberg delight readers with the 3rd Fox & O’Hare book! I think my favorite part of this series is the amazing chemistry between Kate & Nick and their witty banter. It reminds me of the TV show Castle. I highly recommend this series and that readers should start this series from the beginning with Book 1 The Heist & Book 2 The Chase! VCPL has copies available of all 3 titles! Join the fun with Nick & Kate.

County Mayo is rich in the traditions of Ireland, legends that Branna O’Dwyer fully embraces in her life and in her work as the proprietor of The Dark Witch shop, which carries soaps, lotions, and candles for tourists, made with Branna’s special touch. Branna’s strength and selflessness hold together a close circle of friends and family—along with their horses and hawks and her beloved hound. But there’s a single missing link in the chain of her life: love… She had it once—for a moment—with Finbar Burke, but a shared future is forbidden by history and blood. Which is why Fin has spent his life traveling the world to fill the abyss left in him by Branna, focusing on work rather than passion.

Branna and Fin’s relationship offers them both comfort and torment. And though they succumb to the heat between them, there can be no promises for tomorrow. A storm of shadows threatens everything that their circle holds dear. It will be Fin’s power, loyalty, and heart that will make all the difference in an age-old battle between the bonds that hold their friends together and the evil that has haunted their families for centuries.

This is the conclusion to Nora Roberts’ latest trilogy The Cousins O’Dwyer. The series was a little slower pace than Roberts’ usual trilogies. I think that she waited until this third book to really get into the magic side of the story. Check out Books 1 (Dark Witch) and 2 (Shadow Spell) before reading this novel! VCPL has several copies available for each of the titles!

People I want to punch in the throat:• anyone who feels the need to bling her washer and dryer• humblebraggers• people who treat their pets like children Jen Mann doesn’t have a filter, which sometimes gets her in trouble with her neighbors, her fellow PTA moms, and that one woman who tried to sell her sex toys at a home shopping party. Known for her hilariously acerbic observations on her blog, People I Want to Punch in the Throat, Mann now brings her sharp wit to bear on suburban life, marriage, and motherhood in this laugh-out-loud collection of essays. From the politics of joining a play group, to the thrill of mothers’ night out at the gun range, to the rewards of your most meaningful relationship (the one you have with your cleaning lady), nothing is sacred or off-limits. So the next time you find yourself wearing fuzzy bunny pajamas in the school carpool line or accidentally stuck at a co-worker’s swingers party, just think, What would Jen Mann do? Or better yet, buy her book.

I am a huge fan of humorous memoirs. I enjoy reading about women who are honest about their lives and not afraid to laugh at themselves or their families. Jen Mann reminds me of a few other funny Jens such as Jen Lancaster and Jenny Lawson. This book is a quick read with 208 pages and divided into very short chapters that are easy to consume. Stop by VCPL to pick up this book!

Suggested By:

Carey L.,

November, 2014

Also Suggested:

The tao of Martha: my year of LIVING; or, why I'm never, ever getting all that glitter off of the dog by Jen Lancaster,

Jeneration X: one reluctant adult's attempt to unarrest her arrested development, or why it's never too late for her dumb ass to learn why froot loops are not for dinner by Jen Lancaster,

After dying in combat against an alien race, Major William Cage finds that he must repeat the same battle and his ensuing death over and over again. After many failed attempts to survive, Cage begins training with fellow soldier Rita Vrataski in an effort to end his cycle of battle and death. Working together, Rita joins Cage in the repetitious battle, where the pair repeatedly makes it further along before ultimately dying again. Eventually, Cage and Rita last long enough to have a fighting chance at survival—for themselves and the world. I found this movie intriguing, suspenseful, and action-packed. I also found parts of the movie to be unexpectedly witty and funny, which made me like it even more.

Sixteen-year-old Maya is just an ordinary teen in an ordinary town. Sure, she doesn't know much about her background - the only thing she really has to cling to is an odd paw-print birthmark on her hip - but she never really put much thought into who her parents were or how she ended up with her adopted parents in this tiny medical-research community on Vancouver Island.

Until now.

Strange things have been happening in this claustrophobic town - from the mountain lions that have been approaching Maya to her best friend's hidden talent for "feeling" out people and situations, to the sexy new bad boy who makes Maya feel...different. Combine that with a few unexplained deaths and a mystery involving Maya's biological parents and it's easy to suspect that this town might have more than its share of skeletons in its closet.

Lady Clare is an independent and of course beautiful (this is a romance novel after all) young woman running a huge business dealing in scents made from flowers and herbs which supports or employs most of the Isle of Desire's inhabitants. She has inherited the Isle of Desire from her father, but her guardian now requires that she take a husband to become Lord of the Isle. She develops her own recipe for the perfect husband, and awaits the suitors who fit the description to be sent by her guardian. A large knight named Sir Gareth, the Hellhound of Wycknere, is one of the suitors, and she must decide if perhaps she got the recipe a bit wrong, although at least he can read, unlike at least one other suitor. Treachery, murder and some heated romantic scenes keep the story moving along nicely. This 9 disc set is read by Anne Flosnik.

Financial planner Jake Buckman makes a decision that has enormous ramifications for his teenage basketball star son Ryan, his wife Pam, a judge, and their seemingly happy lives together. Lisa Scottoline keeps the suspense rolling along through the many twists and turns of the plot, involving numerous characters who add depth to the story. It seemed that at every twist and turn Jake and his family were figuratively sinking in quicksand. I couldn't wait to finish it, while hoping but hardly daring for any ending but the expected disastrous one. The situations in which they all found themselves seemed hopeless for the majority of the story. Does it end well or shockingly? You will have to read or listen to find out! The library has this title in audiobook, eaudio, large print and regular print. The audiobook version has 7 sound discs nicely read by Ron Livingston.

Emmaline Neal needs a date. Just a date—someone to help her get through her ex-fiancé's wedding without losing her mind. But pickings are slim in Manningsport, New York, population 715. In fact, there's really only one option: local heartthrob Jack Holland. Everyone loves Jack, and he won't get the wrong idea…. After all, Jack Holland would never actually be interested in a woman like Em. Especially not with his beautiful ex-wife creeping around, angling to reunite ever since he rescued a group of teens and became a local hero.

But when the wedding festivities take an unexpectedly passionate turn, Em figures it was just one crazy night. Jack is too gorgeous, too popular, to ever end up with her. So why is she the one he can talk to about his deep, dark feelings? If Em is going to get her dream man, she'll have to start by believing in him…

Em was a very likeable character. I had no problem immediately relating to her. Jack was an interesting character. He does seem to have a hero complex. Jack always seems to be rescuing a damsel in distress even if the damsel is a crazy woman who does not deserve his time or attention. This is Higgins’ 4th Blue Heron book and I will have to admit I had forgotten several of the supporting characters from previous books. I had to use to Goodreads to remember the premise of earlier titles. Regardless of my lack of recollection, I highly recommend this title. Its fun and a fast read even though it was 480 pages. Please do not let the page length deter you from enjoying the lastest from Kristan Higgins. The Vigo County Public Library has a copy of this book in the new fiction collection!

For Olivia Bentley, Lucky Harbor is more than the town where she runs her new vintage shop. It's the place where folks are friendly to strangers-and nobody knows her real name. Olivia does a good job of keeping her past buried, not getting too cozy with anyone . . . until she sees a man drowning. Suddenly she's rushing into the surf, getting up close and personal with the hottest guy she's ever laid hands on. Charter boat captain Cole Donovan has no problem with a gorgeous woman throwing her arms around his neck in an effort to "save" him. In fact, he'd like to spend a lot more time skin-to-skin with Olivia. He's just not expecting that real trouble is about to come her way. Will it bring her deeper into Cole's heart, or will it be the end of Olivia's days in little Lucky Harbor?

As a reader, I love when authors center their stories and characters around a single town such as Lucky Harbor. I think it is fun to imagine how the town looks and slowly get to know each of the townspeople. This title is Shalvis’ 11th book in her Lucky Harbor series. I had a hard time trying to figure out Cole. On one hand, when he is with the guys he seems very serious and tough but around his family he is a happy easy going guy. While I liked the overall story, I think I would have preferred it Shalvis had not made his character so hard to read. I am interested in what others thinks, so check out this title at the Vigo County Public Library in the new fiction collection.

London, 1817: Stuck in a Mayfair ballroom, thanks to his lovestruck brother, Highlander Arran MacLawry wants nothing but a bit of distraction from an arranged betrothal—and a clever auburn-haired lass in a vixen's mask promises just that . . . until he discovers that she's the granddaughter of the Campbell, chief of clan MacLawry's longtime rival. Despite their families' grudging truce, falling for fiery Mary Campbell is a notion too outlandish even for this Highlander…

Raised on tales of savage MacLawrys, Mary is stunned to realize the impressively strapping man in the fox's mask is one of them. Surely the enemy shouldn't have such a broad chest, and such a seductive brogue? Not that her curiosity matters—any dalliance between them is strictly forbidden, and she's promised to another. But with the crackling spark between them ready to catch flame, love is worth every risk…

This title is book #2 in Suzanne Enoch’s Scandalous Highlanders series. I recommend trying to read them in order. The first book is called The Devil Wears Kilts. This was a Scotland twist on the classic Romeo & Juliet. Arran’s family is known for their hot temper and impulsive behavior but falling in love with a Campbell is too large of a shock for either family to handle. I think the ending was my favorite part when both familes converge on the couple. Highly entertaining! The Vigo County Public Library has this title in the Rack books collection. Happy Reading!

Personal trainer Trey Ziegler was in peak physical condition. If you didn't count the kitchen knife in his well-toned chest. Lieutenant Eve Dallas soon discovers a lineup of women who'd been loved and left by the narcissistic gym rat. While Dallas sorts through the list of Ziegler's enemies, she's also dealing with her Christmas shopping list—plus the guest list for her and her billionaire husband's upcoming holiday bash. Feeling less than festive, Dallas tries to put aside her distaste for the victim and solve the mystery of his death. There are just a few investigating days left before Christmas, and as New Year's 2061 approaches, this homicide cop is resolved to stop a cold-blooded killer.

J.D. Robb’s back in 2060 with In Death #39. I liked that this book had a little more of a personal element mixed in with the usual death and violence than other books. It is always fun to watch Eve struggle with human emotions and Christmas traditions. I have to admit I hope the next book has an awesome serial killer in it! Vigo County Public Library has this title in regular print, large print, ebook and audiobook! Stop by to pick up a copy today!

Drowned is the first book in a new series by author Nichola Reilly. Set in a post-apocalyptic world in which less than 500 people are left living on an island, teenager Coe fights for the survival of herself and her makeshift family made of her friends Tiam, Fern, and princess Star. Every day when the tide goes out it takes a little more of the island with it. With shrinking land and resources there are very few people Coe can trust.

When the the island's king becomes ill, he chooses Coe to be a lady-in-waiting for his daughter, Star, and chooses Tiam to be the new king upon his passing. Upon learning this the rest of the island's people become enraged and decide they should be the ones to choose their next king...and that there is no longer a place for Coe and her friends on the island.

This is a great read for anyone who enjoys post-apocalyptic fiction. I look forward to the next book in the series!

Veronika is one of four girls who live on an island with two caretakers. Other than hair color the girls are identical. The girls are Isobel who has hair that is yellow like lemons, Caroline who has hair that is brown like coconuts, Eleanor who has hair as black as wet tar and Veronika, who's hair is the red, the color of rust. The book is written from Veronika's perspective which can seem a little stilted and hesitant. The style of writing brings out your curiositiy and makes you wonder why it is written in this way. The girls have lived on the island as long as they can remember and their caretakers have told them that they are there because of a plane crash that killed their parents. They do not swim or go near the water. Supplies are brought to them by boat and no one leaves. The girls spend their days studying the island and the things around them. They take naps and sing songs that help them learn about things. It is a very orderly life and each day is similar. Then one day, after a storm when they go out to study what has washed up by the tide, Veronika finds an injured girl and everything changes. Who is this girl and how did she get here? What will her coming change for the others on the island? This is an interesting and compelling story. A good read for teens and adults.

For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf—her wolf—is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without.

Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human… until the cold makes him shift back again.

Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human—or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever.

At seven minutes past midnight, thirteen-year-old Conor wakes to find a monster outside his bedroom window. But it isn't the monster Conor's been expecting-- he's been expecting the one from his nightmare, the nightmare he's had nearly every night since his mother started her treatments. The monster in his backyard is different. It's ancient. And wild. And it wants something from Conor. The most terrible and dangerous thing of all.

It wants the truth.

From the final idea of award-winning author Siobhan Dowd-- whose premature death from cancer prevented her from writing it herself-- Patrick Ness has spun a haunting and darkly funny novel of mischief, loss, and monsters both real and imagined.

This debut science fiction novel won the Hugo, Nebula, Locus and Arthur Clarke awards.Ancillary Justice is a military space adventure set in the distance future. The Radch Empire rules a large part of the universe through large starships with Artificial Intelligence.The ships also control a large number of ancillaries (human bodies controlled by fragments of the central AI).A colossal starship Justice of Toren mysteriously disappears and Breq is the sole surviving part of the AI.The story switches between the past and the present as Breq pursues a mission of and justice and vengeance. Annie Leckie creates rich and complex world. The story builds so by the end you will be eager for the next title (Ancillary Sword).

Kate, a former CIA operative, and her husband, Dexter, move from the States to Luxembourg, where he accepts a security job monitoring and preventing international bank fraud.They have two young sons as well, and this is the first time Kate has spent a lot of time with them, since she is no longer employed outside the home.Kate frequently flashes back to her past in the CIA and assassinations that she conducted.Dexter also has something to hide, and Kate spends much of the novel trying to discover if her husband is her enemy or still the love of her life. Dexter is up to something, but it takes a long time for her to learn something about it, as all is not what it seems. There are many twists and turns in the plot that keep changing the reader’s opinion of both of them of as to what might happen, and what has happened in the past.Two FBI agents, a couple, are tracking Dexter and Kate, and their intentions are a mystery as well.A definite page-turner, and the descriptions of daily life in Luxembourg from the perspective of Americans new to the country add much to the story.A surprise ending completes the plot.If you read or listen to this book, I believe you will want to read more by this author.This 10 disc set is pleasingly read by Mozhan Marno, and she does an excellent narration.

Sea of Glory will enlighten you as to the hardships of sailing in the early 1800s, and the at times vicious discipline that was doled out by the expedition’s leader, Lieutenant Charles Wilkes, who considered himself the Commodore.Over a four year period the group of 6 ships sailed around the world, surveying 280 Pacific islands and making many discoveries of new species of plants and animals unknown until then.Cannibals were the one group they encountered whom they hoped to avoid, but the aggressive handling of the situation by Wilkes after two sailors were murdered, made things even worse.Due to his arrogance and unsympathetic nature, the majority of officers eventually turned against him, and were bitter for years thereafter, as their careers were in his hands, both then and in terms of recommendations.Often referred to as the “Ex Ex”, the expedition was very important to the United States scientific community.The long delayed military repercussions for Wilkes and his other officers will surprise the reader/listener.10 discs read by Scott Brick.

After a disastrous blind date, single parents Lauren (Drew Barrymore) and Jim (Adam Sandler) agree on only one thing: they never want to see each other again. But when they each sign up separately for a fabulous family vacation with their kids, they are all stuck sharing a suite at a luxurious African safari resort for a week.

Rated PG-13. I thoroughly enjoyed this comedy from Barrymore and Sandler. The comedic chemistry they had in 50 First Dates was back and I couldn’t help but enjoy the film. VCPL has this film available in DVD and Blu-Ray.

London, 1817: Stuck in a Mayfair ballroom, thanks to his lovestruck brother, Highlander Arran MacLawry wants nothing but a bit of distraction from an arranged betrothal—and a clever auburn-haired lass in a vixen's mask promises just that . . . until he discovers that she's the granddaughter of the Campbell, chief of clan MacLawry's longtime rival. Despite their families' grudging truce, falling for fiery Mary Campbell is a notion too outlandish even for this Highlander…

Raised on tales of savage MacLawrys, Mary is stunned to realize the impressively strapping man in the fox's mask is one of them. Surely the enemy shouldn't have such a broad chest, and such a seductive brogue? Not that her curiosity matters—any dalliance between them is strictly forbidden, and she's promised to another. But with the crackling spark between them ready to catch flame, love is worth every risk…

This is book #2 in the Scandalous Highlanders series. Main characters Arran and Mary are told to stay away from each other which of course made it that much more exciting to be together. I enjoyed how the characters tried to ignore their feelings until they were forcibly separated. Suzanne Enoch writes wonderful romances with strong heroines and enjoyable heroes. I am excited to read more from this series! This book is available at VCPL!

The world of Harmony has its wonders, one of them being Rainshadow Island. Just beneath its surface, a maze of catacombs hides a dangerous secret...…

Halloween—with its tricks and treats—is a dust bunny’s dream come true. Just ask Lyle, Sedona Snow’s faithful sidekick. But for Sedona, it’s a nightmare. Though her new job managing a small hotel and tavern on Rainshadow is helping her move on from her tragic past, a bizarre disaster down in the catacombs has brought a pack of rowdy ghost hunters to her inn.

And now, Sedona’s ex has arrived on the island, claiming he wants to get back together, just as a newcomer appears to have a strong interest in her. Cyrus Jones is the new Guild boss in town. He has his own agenda when it comes to Sedona, but even the best-laid plans are no match for the passion that springs up on Rainshadow….

Jayne Castle’s world of Harmony is a fascinating read. I love exploring the alien world with each new book. I would love to have a dust bunny as a pet! Sound weird, trust me! Read this series and understand why dust bunnies are awesome! Check out this third installment of Castle’s Rainshadow series.

Becca Thorpe has uprooted her life and escaped to the beach. Now's her chance to get away from city living, throw caution to the ocean winds, and live in the moment. Especially if the moment includes the deliciously sexy surfer she meets shortly after arriving in Lucky Harbor. Something about the dark intensity of Sam's eyes and the thrill she gets at his touch convinces her to stay awhile.

Boatbuilder and investment genius Sam Brody is a self-made man who knows how dangerous it can be to mix business and pleasure. But he can't resist offering Becca a job just to hear her laugh and have her near. Yet when her brother comes to town asking for help, will he tempt her back to her glamorous life in the city? Or do Sam and little Lucky Harbor have a chance to win Becca's heart?

Join fans of Jill Shalvis in her fictional town of Lucky Harbor for book #10! But the book can be read as a standalone if you haven’t read any of the others. Shalvis is one of my must-read contemporary romance authors. She creates a good mix of fun, sexy, heartfelt and hilarious. I highly recommend checking this book out!

This is a book of fiction, allegory, and inspiration. It's a recommended read for teens and adults of all ages as it has something for everyone. It is a book on perspective. How perspective can change everything. Andy Andrews has a special way of blending it all into a wonderful story of a man called, Jones, who mysteriously appears in peoples lives when they need perspective the most, including encounters with the author himself. It is a fast, engaging read, with a big impact on the reader. If you enjoy it then you will surely want to read his other books.

The timeless tale continues... The most popular and beloved American historical novel ever written, Margaret Mitchell's Gone with the Wind is unparalleled in its portrayal of men and women at once larger than life but as real as ourselves. Now bestselling writer Alexandra Ripley brings us back to Tara and reintroduces us to the characters we remember so well: Rhett, Ashley, Mammy, Suellen, Aunt Pittypat, and, of course, Scarlett. As the classic story, first told over half a century ago, moves forward, the greatest love affair in all fiction is reignited; amidst heartbreak and joy, the endless, consuming passion between Scarlett O'Hara and Rhett Butler reaches its startling culmination.

Heather, a young professional approaching 40 who has never found Mr. Right, has an asthma attack and winds up in the hospital where she meets pulmonologist Dr. Jeff, who of course is Mr. Wrong because he is married with young children. Heather, of course, doesn't know he is a philanderer, and despite knowing better, begins an affair with him. As an aside, she is in the process of adopting a Chinese baby to make her life complete. Although steamy at times, the affair eventually winds up in the courtroom. Dr. Jeff probably has the most to lose, because ethically a doctor is never supposed to involve himself romantically with a patient, but Dr. Jeff is arrogant and thinks he is above the rules. An eye-opening look at what can happen in real life and how lives can be ruined by poor decisions.

Lee Child has many fans and has written numerous titles. Gone Tomorrow starts with chief character Jack Reacher riding on the subway late at night and becoming suspicious that a woman in the same car is a terrorist, ready to blow up the subway train. He takes us through the 10 point checklist of identifying suicide bombers. Through twists and turns the plot evolves into something much more dramatic, sinister and dark. Child is so graphic in his description of torture and killing by Afghan women that I could neither listen nor read parts of this book. Reacher himself becomes a killing machine for self-preservation. If you are not disturbed by such material, the book will hold your interest as the overall plot keeps you guessing.

It's 1985, but as you've never seen it before. Thanks to the introduction of American superheroes at the dawn of World War 2, the course of history has forever changed: the U.S. won the Vietnam War, Nixon is still President and the Cold War is in full effect. Now, as the Doomsday Clock ticks ever closer to Midnight, the world is rushing headlong towards the brink of another major catastrophe...but not the one they expect.

It all starts with a series of gruesome murders that forces the retired group of unlikely heroes known as the Watchmen to reunite once more. As they work to find the murderer and bring him to justice, though, the Watchmen quickly realize that there is far more to this mystery than one bloodthirsty killer. As everything comes to a head, the Watchmen must test the limits of their convictions and ask themselves where the true line between good and evil really lies.

One of the most influential graphic novels of all time and a perennial best-seller, Watchmen chronicles the fall from grace of a group of super-heroes plagued by all-too-human failings. Along the way, the concept of the super-hero is dissected as the heroes are stalked by an unknown assassin. This Hugo Award-winning graphic novel has been studied on college campuses across the nation and is considered a gateway title, leading readers to other graphic novels such asV for Vendetta,Batman: The Dark Knight ReturnsandThe Sandmanseries.

Twenty-two year old Su's freak accident with a ceiling fan erases her past and affects her future. How do you cope when you wake up to a husband and two children you don't remember, and your once extensive vocabulary is now limited to 100 words? Written to be an inspiration for others who may have suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), this is one woman's true story of learning to be herself again.